The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degree (EMJMD) in Bio and Pharmaceutical Materials Science is a highly specialized two-year international master’s programme funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union. The programme provides advanced, interdisciplinary education at the intersection of materials science, physics, chemistry, and pharmaceutical sciences, responding to the growing global demand for experts in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical materials.
BIOPHAM is designed for students seeking high-level academic training combined with international mobility, research excellence, and strong career prospects in industry or doctoral studies.
Project Status and Funding Information
The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Joint Master is an ongoing Erasmus+ project supported by long-term European Union funding.
- Project Status: Ongoing
- Start Date: 01 November 2025
- End Date: 31 December 2031
- EU Grant: €3,240,000.00
- Programme: Erasmus+
- Key Action: Partnerships for Cooperation and Exchanges of Practices
- Action Type: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s
- Countries Covered: 4
This funding period ensures programme continuity, high academic standards, and the availability of Erasmus Mundus scholarships for eligible international students.
Universities and Countries Involved
The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus programme is delivered by a consortium of leading European universities, offering students a truly international academic experience.
Partner Universities
- University of Lille – France (Coordinating Institution)
- Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) – Spain
- University of Pisa – Italy
- University of Silesia in Katowice – Poland
Countries Covered
France, Spain, Italy, Poland
Programme Overview
The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Master’s programme aims to establish the emerging discipline of pharmaceutical materials science by integrating fundamental and applied knowledge from multiple scientific domains. The curriculum focuses on understanding the structure, properties, processing, and performance of materials used in pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical applications.
Students receive advanced training in:
- Physics and chemistry of materials
- Soft and condensed matter
- Molecular and polymer science
- Drug formulation and materials behavior
- Experimental and computational materials characterization
Key Features of the BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Programme
Interdisciplinary Academic Training
BIOPHAM combines materials science, nanotechnology, engineering physics, biophysics, chemical analysis, and pharmaceutical sciences in a single integrated curriculum.
International Mobility
Students study at multiple European universities, gaining academic and cultural exposure across different higher education systems.
Mandatory Internships
The programme includes two compulsory internships, which may be completed worldwide in:
- Academic research institutions
- Public or private R&D centers
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
Research and Career Orientation
Graduates are well prepared for:
- Doctoral (PhD) programmes
- Research and development roles
- Careers in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries
Mobility Structure of the BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Programme
The two-year programme follows a structured international mobility pathway.
Year 1
- Semester 1: University of Pisa (Italy)
Focus on materials science and nanotechnology - Semester 2: Polytechnic University of Catalonia, Barcelona (Spain)
Focus on engineering physics and advanced materials
Year 2
- Semester 3: One of the following:
- University of Lille (France)
- University of Silesia in Katowice (Poland)
- Semester 4: Master’s thesis at a partner or associated institution
Specialisation Tracks
Students choose between two main academic tracks:
- Soft-Matter and Biopharmaceuticals
- Condensed-Matter and Pharmaceuticals
Each track includes specialization in:
- Modelling and simulation
- Advanced experimental characterization techniques
Curriculum Structure ( University of Pisa)
| Course | ECTS |
|---|---|
| Quantum Physics of Matter | 6 |
| Solid State Physics | 6 |
| Disordered and Off-Equilibrium Systems | 6 |
| Mechanical Behaviour of Materials | 6 |
| Polymer Science and Engineering | 6 |
| Transport Phenomena in Materials | 6 |
| Introduction to Optical Spectroscopy | 6 |
| Biofluids and Materials Interactions | 3 |
| Manufacturing of Polymers and Nanocomposites for Biomedical Applications | 3 |
| Rheology | 6 |
| Computational Materials Science | 6 |
| Green Chemistry for Materials and Processes | 6 |
| Total | 30 ECTS |
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Physical Chemistry
- Materials Science
- Nanoscience
Degrees in pharmaceutical sciences or life sciences may be considered if supported by a strong background in physics and/or chemistry.
English Language Requirements
- Minimum B2 level in English
- Proof via IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent
- Alternatively, certification that prior higher education was taught in English
Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Opportunities
Selected students may receive a fully funded Erasmus Mundus scholarship, which typically covers:
- Tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel and installation costs
- Health and insurance coverage
Scholarships are awarded on a highly competitive, merit-based basis.
How to Apply for the BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Programme
- Verify academic and language eligibility
- Prepare required documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
- Letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
- Submit the online application via the official BIOPHAM website during the application period
Tips for a Successful BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus Application
- Write a focused motivation letter clearly aligned with pharmaceutical materials science
- Highlight relevant laboratory, research, or industrial experience
- Demonstrate strong academic performance in physics, chemistry, or materials science
- Provide detailed and specific recommendation letters
- Ensure clarity, structure, and consistency across all application documents
Career Prospects After BIOPHAM
Graduates of the BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus programme pursue careers in:
- Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries
- Advanced materials research and development
- Public and private research institutions
- Regulatory agencies
- Doctoral (PhD) programmes and academic careers
Programme Coordination and Contact
- Coordinating Institution: University of Lille, France
- Email: master-biopham@univ-lille.fr
- Official Website: BIOPHAM Official Website
Erasmus Catalogue will continue to publish detailed, course-specific guides to Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters to help students make informed academic decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus programme currently accepting applications?
The programme is funded for the 2025–2031 period. Application calls are published annually on the official BIOPHAM website.
What degree is awarded after completing the programme?
Students receive joint or multiple Master’s degrees from the participating universities, fully recognised across Europe and internationally.
What is the language of instruction?
All courses and academic activities are conducted entirely in English.
How competitive is the Erasmus Mundus scholarship?
Erasmus Mundus scholarships are highly competitive and awarded based on academic excellence, motivation, and relevant background.
Can students from non-EU countries apply?
Yes. The BIOPHAM Erasmus Mundus programme is open to applicants from all nationalities.
Is prior research experience mandatory?
Research experience is not mandatory but is considered a strong advantage during the selection process.
